Didanosine Oral capsule

Find a Physician

What is this medicine?

DIDANOSINE, ddI (dye DAN oh seen) is an antiretroviral medicine. It is used with other medicines to treat HIV. This medicine is not a cure for HIV. It will not stop the spread of HIV to others.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after food. Do not take with food. Do not chew or crush. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. For your anti-HIV therapy to work as well as possible, take each dose exactly as prescribed. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine even if you feel better. Skipping doses may make the HIV virus resistant to this medicine and other medicines. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

changes in vision

nausea, vomiting, unusual stomach upset or pain

tingling, pain or numbness in the hands or feet

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

diarrhea

dry mouth or eyes

headache

heartburn or gas

loss of appetite

muscle pain

skin rash

weight gain around waist, back, or thinning of face, arms, legs

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with the following medications:

allopurinol

ribavirin

zalcitabine, ddC

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

delavirdine

ganciclovir

hydroxyurea

indinavir

itraconazole

ketoconazole

methadone

some antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, tetracycline

stavudine, d4T

tenofovir

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.